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If you thought that installation of carpeting was an impossible process that only trained professionals can execute, think again. Many homeowners are finding that with a little preparation and a little practice, they can successfully install their own carpeting.
The pros and cons of do-it-yourself carpet installation are generally controlled by the interest and experience of the home handyman or woman. Obviously, self installation is less expensive than installation by carpet professionals, and it also provides the luxury of doing the job at your own pace. However, some special tools may be needed, and some of the work may require an additional pair of hands. Also, do-it-yourself installation assumes the responsibility for any mistakes. Problems caused by a wrong measurement or incorrect sub floor preparation will not be corrected by a carpet retailer, and you may void all or part of your carpet’s warranty. By reviewing some fundamentals of carpet installation, you can determine if you are up to the challenge of installing your new carpet.
There are two basic methods of carpet installation -- the stretch-in method and the glue-down method. The first decision to make is which is appropriate for the setting in which the carpeting will be installed.
The stretch-in method, where carpet is fitted to the room and attached to tack strips, may provide greater cushion and spring, higher insulation and noise reduction (especially when installed with an appropriate carpet cushion) and is appropriate for rooms with floors that are unsuitable for glue-down. Matching is easy with stretch in installation, so it is often recommended for patterned carpets, and removal of the carpet is easier than the glue down method. The stretch method is common in most residential settings, and may be required with many of the carpets designed for the home.
Stretch-in installation should be avoided where the carpet may experience heavy movement of furniture or fixtures, such as in an office. It also should not be used on ramps or inclines; where there is excessive humidity; or where the carpet selected has a special backing designed only for glue-down installation.
The glue-down method is suitable for most areas, including ramps and heavy traffic areas. Seams are durable (but more difficult to repair than with the stretch-in method) and there are no restrictions on the size of the area to be carpeted. Special borders or custom design features can be executed with glue-down installation, and the glue down method is usually less expensive.
Whether you are doing the installation yourself, or having professionals install your new carpeting, there are a few additional items that you should consider.
? The sub floor should be clean, devoid of any cracks, holes or ridges, and at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit to assure proper stretch and wear of your carpet.
? Placing seams where natural light is strongest will help hide them, as will placing them under large pieces of furniture. Avoid seams where there is regular traffic, and do not place them over pad seams.
? The area where the carpet is being installed should be open and well ventilated. Thoroughly vacuum your old carpet before removing it, to eliminate dust.
? Even solid color carpeting has a “pattern.” The pile, or tufts, in your new carpet have a direction, and you must be careful that all adjacent carpet is laid in the same direction.
If you opt for professional installation, your carpeting retailer may have its own installation staff, or can offer suggestions on reputable carpet installers. Installation by the retailer may be a little more expensive, but you will have recourse to the retailer as well as the installer should you be dissatisfied with any part of the job. Also, professional installation may be a condition of your carpet’s warranty.
Private contractors may offer a lower rate for installation than your retailer, but your options may be more limited should you encounter a problem. If you work with an independent installer, make sure to ask for references, and ask if the installer adheres to the Standard for Installation of Residential Carpet CRI 105. Among other things, this requires that the carpet must be power stretched to minimize wrinkling and rippling, and seams must be sealed with appropriate adhesive to prevent edge ravel.
If you think you are ready to attempt your own carpet installation, seek assistance from your carpeting retailer, or study one of the many publications that will walk you, step-by-step, through the process. Whether you choose professional installation or the do-it-yourself method, knowing the fundamentals of carpet installation will assure that you are ready for your new carpeting, that it is installed correctly, and that you can expect it will provide you years of use and pleasure.
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